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영어

Christians who participate in church educational ministry may be involved in conflict. Many problems in church context take place because of unresolved conflict. Leaders of church educational ministry are to prevent and manage conflicts based on the biblical principles. This essay presented biblical principles, factors, and skills for preventing and resolving church conflict creatively to help church educational ministry leaders. The definition of conflict is as follows: “church conflict is an uncomfortable situation among people or groups in a church in which people realize that they cannot truly achieve what they wish.” This essay suggested five positive factors for preventing and resolving conflict in church educational ministry. First is shared vision. It is also impossible to draw followers’ devotion if church leaders fail to share their ministry vision effectively. The second is communication. It is a method of connecting people’s thoughts and actions in church ministry groups. The third is participation. Most people want to be regarded as important beings in churches and organizations by participating in the shaping of visions and activities. The fourth is trust building. When there is a low trust in the church, conflict may come to pass. The fifth is understanding cultural difference. If a church leader does not understand cultural differences, church conflicts will arise among people. This essay also suggested seven biblical principles of conflict resolution for helping churches. First, conflict must be properly resolved. Second, Christians are to see conflict positively because they can glorify God if they resolve it in a biblical way. Third, Christians also have to confront conflict situation based on Matthew 18:15-17, if necessary. Fourth, Christians try to seek mutual benefit in resolving conflict. Fifth, Christians should take the role of a peace maker based on Eph. 4:3. Sixth, Church leaders are to train church congregation for conflict management. Seventh, love is one of the most important keys for conflict resolution.